Reishi mushrooms (Ganoderma lucidum) have been traditionally used for medicinal purposes in Asia for centuries. They are also known as lingzhi mushrooms and are known for their potential health benefits, including improved sleep and sleep health. Here are some of the benefits of reishi mushrooms for sleep:
- Promotes Relaxation: Reishi mushrooms have been shown to have a calming effect on the mind and body, which can help reduce stress and promote relaxation. This can be especially helpful for people who have trouble falling asleep due to anxiety or stress.
- Reduces Inflammation: Inflammation in the body can disrupt sleep, and reishi mushrooms are known to have anti-inflammatory properties. By reducing inflammation, reishi mushrooms may improve the quality of sleep.
- Boosts Immune System: Reishi mushrooms are also known for their immune-boosting properties. When your immune system is functioning optimally, you are less likely to get sick, which can help you get better quality sleep.
- Improves Sleep Quality: Reishi mushrooms contain compounds that can increase the duration and quality of sleep. Specifically, they contain triterpenes and polysaccharides, which have been shown to have sleep-promoting effects.
- Regulates Hormones: Reishi mushrooms have also been shown to help regulate hormones, including cortisol, which is known as the stress hormone. When cortisol levels are high, it can disrupt sleep. By regulating cortisol levels, reishi mushrooms may help promote better sleep.
There are some studies that suggest that reishi mushrooms may be beneficial for sleep. For example, a study published in the journal Pharmacology, Biochemistry and Behavior found that reishi mushroom extract increased total sleep time and reduced the time it took for mice to fall asleep. Another study, published in the journal Sleep and Biological Rhythms, found that reishi mushrooms improved sleep quality and reduced fatigue in human participants.
In addition, a review of multiple studies published in the journal Current Topics in Nutraceutical Research found that reishi mushrooms may have potential as a natural sleep aid, although the authors noted that more research is needed to fully understand the mechanisms involved and to confirm the benefits observed in animal and human studies.
Overall, reishi mushrooms may be helpful for people who have trouble sleeping, especially if their sleep issues are related to stress or inflammation. However, more research is needed to fully understand the potential benefits of reishi mushrooms for sleep and sleep health. It is also important to note that reishi mushrooms can interact with certain medications, so it is important to talk to your healthcare provider before taking any supplements.